Preparing tomorrow’s leaders, today

Through our Ready for School initiative, Raymond James is focused on helping young people build the confidence and skills they need to succeed in school and in life. That commitment has taken on new meaning through our partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

As the presenting partner of Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Youth of the Year program, we’re proud to support over 15,000 teen participants nationwide, on their way to great futures.

Inside the Youth of the Year program

For 80 years, Youth of the Year has demonstrated what Boys & Girls Clubs do best: readying tomorrow’s leaders. The year-round program prepares young people for higher education, careers and leading a diverse, global world. Working with adult mentors, teens strengthen their public speaking, share their stories and lead positive change in their communities.

“Every child has their sights raised by the Youth of the Year program and process. With each step, they get more experience with skills that can serve them for life like organizing your thoughts and writing a coherent presentation. It’s an amazing growth experience for the kids.”

• John Morabito, Senior Vice President, Raymond James & Associates, Inc, 2026 Southeast Youth of the Year judge

Youth of the Year also awards more than half a million dollars annually in post-secondary scholarships, with former honorees going on to become lawyers, doctors, business executives and more.

“There is real hope for the future. The maturity, character and leadership displayed by these young people reminded me that the next generation is filled with talented individuals who are ready to make a positive difference in the world.”

• David Alford, First Vice President, Wealth Management, 2026 Southwest Youth of the Year judge

How Raymond James is empowering young leaders

Raymond James’ investment provides essential resources for Youth of the Year events and programming at local, state, regional and national levels. At each level, Youth of the Year candidates are evaluated by a panel of judges on their essays, speeches and interviews about how their Boys & Girls Club experience grew their leadership confidence. Judges also support teens with networking, opening doors to professional connections and opportunities.

This year, thirteen Raymond James employees had the chance to serve as Youth of the Year judges in markets across the country, including Phoenix, New York, Atlanta, Dallas, Chicago and Miami.

For many of our associates, the experience was both inspiring and grounding.

“The support, structure and community Boys & Girls Clubs provide young people makes all the difference. Clubs really serve as a foundation for getting them to the next level.”

• Judson Potter, Complex Manager and Managing Director, 2026 Northeast Youth of the Year judge

“Serving as a judge was rewarding and challenging at the same time. I loved doing it. The candidates were such impressive young men and women.”

• Rich Konefal, Chief Compliance Officer, 2026 National Military Youth of the Year judge

Beyond after-school: A life-shaping program

Youth of the Year goes beyond skill-building, creating pathways for real-world success.

With guidance from his Youth of the Year mentors, 2026 Southeast Youth of the Year Enrique created his own Spanish curriculum and program, teaching over 40 kids at his Club. He later spoke to his school board about how Boys & Girls Clubs provide essential resources to students, sharing his Youth of the Year and mentoring experiences.

His leadership and passion for teaching made such an impression that the board offered him a guaranteed teaching job in the county after finishing college. It is a dream he has had since childhood, now pursuing at the University of Florida after graduating high school as class valedictorian.

“Because these kids have an organization like Boys & Girls Clubs of America to believe in them and guide them, they have been able to accomplish great things. I know and believe that they will go on to accomplish even more from here.”

• Glenn Pahnke, Portfolio Management Director, Managing Director, 2026 Pacific Youth of the Year judge

Investing in America’s future leaders

Youth of the Year is more than an after-school program. It is a launchpad for young people ready to lead with purpose.

Through our Boys & Girls Clubs of America partnership, Raymond James is equipping more teens with what they need to graduate, pursue higher education, unlock greater earning potential and contribute to a stronger workforce. This impact extends past kids, creating stronger families, more connected neighborhoods and greater economic mobility for generations to come.

“As a Boys & Girls Club alum, it was amazing to hear these stories. Many of these young people have been involved with the Club for over 10 years and you can see the lasting impact it’s had.”

• Chris Fils, Managing Director, Complex Manager, 2026 Midwest Youth of the Year judge

Together, Raymond James and Boys & Girls Clubs of America are empowering more young people to build better futures, for themselves and us all. Learn more about our partnership.